Those who know me best know that autumn is my favorite time of the year. I love to breathe in the freshness of the first chill in the air. I like the colors of autumn. Even as far south as central Alabama, one can experience the changing colors of the leaves. I enjoy college football (enough said). Some folks look forward to hunting season. The Thanksgiving holiday is a special time. Family members (in other families, of course) who don’t even like each other are willing to put differences aside to enjoy a meal together.

But I know there are the naysayers out there. One might ask, “What do you mean by autumn renewal? Everything is dying in autumn.” Many folks would say that “spring renewal” would be more appropriate. They contend (and are correct) that things start growing again–dormancy is over–greenery begins to seep through the bland landscape of winter.

There are other reasons why autumn is not special for some. I know folks who experience seasonal affective disorder and I feel for them. In addition, some folks have lost loved ones during this time of year and that contributes to a sadness or melancholy spirit during autumn.

And yet, I still find this time of year to be a time of renewal. The long, hot summer has come to an end. Grass cutting is over (HOORAY)! I find it more difficult to be upset with others when I walk out on my front porch and feel the cool breeze and watch the orange and red leaves gently bouncing on the limbs.

Renewal, of course, is healthy regardless of when the renewal occurs. Every once in a while, it’s a good idea to step back and look at the big picture. It’s good to take a deep breath and ask ourselves about what really matters.

So what might an autumn renewal look like for you and me?

Of course, I cannot speak for anyone else. But it just seems that our society is in need of a dose of kindness and gentleness. We need a break from harshness and vitriol. In short, maybe renewal can mean forgiveness. Seriously, for the Christian, what if renewal took the form of a more gentle spirit when interacting with others? Why must we constantly live in an “us vs. them” world? Why does everything have to begin and end at either the right or the left?

Why can we not allow personal renewal to include a forgiveness of others even and especially when they doggedly disagree with us?

After all, as Christians, we profess to follow Jesus and his teachings. I’ve been thinking a lot about the sermon on the mount lately. For those of us who say “I will follow Jesus wherever he leads…” the sermon on the mount presents a tall order. For example, look at the following short passage:

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’  But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.  If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?  And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?  Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.

Please remember, these are the words of Jesus. If we really want to be serious about following Jesus, then our words and our actions toward those who seem to despise us will be kind and gentle. When someone disparages us with angry rhetoric and contempt, our response is to be loving.

Before you even ask, I will tell you. No, I do not always act this way toward those who disagree with me. That’s why it’s good to seek renewal–to take that step back–from time to time.

Regardless of whether you are a “fall person” or a “spring person” or neither, maybe this can be a time for renewal for all of us.